How Often Should You Walk Your Dog? A Practical Guide
For a number of us, walking the dog is more than a chore. It’s an opportunity to clear the head, check out a little more of this burg or hit the bush tracks and commune with our four-legged friends. But how often should you actually walk your dog?
If you’re like the average Aussie dog owner, then there's a good chance you’ve asked this question at some point (especially when your pup is gazing up at you with those Let's Go! eyes). Whether you’re in the city, on country roads or working alongside your dog at a job site, this guide will help you establish a walking schedule that keeps your friend happy, healthy and engaged.
When we walk, we do more than exercise the body; we exercise the mind, too – and this is what makes physical therapy such an effective tool.
Here’s why regular walks matter:
This depends on a few key factors: breed, age, energy level, health, and daily environment.
Let’s break it down.
Dogs bred for work or endurance, such as Border Collies, Kelpies, and Shepherds, need significantly more exercise than a low-energy breed like a Bulldog.
| Breed Type | Recommended Walks |
|---|---|
| High Energy (Working, Herding, Sporting) | 1–2 long walks (45+ mins) + playtime daily |
| Moderate Energy (Retrievers, Spaniels, Staffies) | 1 walk (30–60 mins) daily |
| Low Energy (Pugs, Bulldogs, Basset Hounds) | 1 shorter walk (20–30 mins) daily |
Tip: Don’t judge solely by size; some small dogs (like Jack Russells) need heaps of exercise!
You may start to see signs of restlessness, weight gain, destructive behaviour, or even anxiety. According to the RSPCA, under-exercised dogs are more likely to develop behavioural issues, which can sadly lead to rehoming.
So if your lead's collecting dust, it might be time to bring it back into rotation.
If you’re wondering whether a few big weekend walks make up for missed weekdays, the short answer is not really. Just like humans, dogs benefit from consistency over intensity.
1 walk per day
4–5 walks per week
30–60 minutes, depending on breed and fitness
If you can't manage every single day, aim to make the walks you do take your dog on count, engaging, unrushed, and interactive.
If you’re a tradie, farmer, or outdoor worker with a dog by your side most of the day, you might wonder if they even need a walk.
It depends on how physically and mentally active they are during work. If they’re constantly moving, watching, and learning, they’re likely getting plenty of stimulation. But structured lead walking still helps with obedience, bonding, and calm behaviour.
💡 Tip: Even for working dogs, a 15–30 minute evening walk on lead can help “switch off” their workday brain and signal that it’s time to wind down.
Life gets busy. Maybe it’s pouring rain. Or perhaps you’re recovering from a rough week. On those off days, try supplementing walks with:
Interactive dog toys that encourage problem-solving
Short backyard training sessions
Tug-of-war or indoor fetch
Hide-and-seek with treats
Whether you're walking around the block or trekking in the bush, reliable dog gear matters. That means collars that won’t snap, leads that don’t burn your hands, and hardware that lasts season after season.
Choose the right length for your environment. PK9 leads are Aussie-made and tested in real outdoor conditions, built to last and feel great in your hand.
Comfort meets strength. Go for collars with quality stitching, metal hardware (not plastic), and materials that don’t cause rubbing or irritation.
Clip leads are great for everyday walking. Slip leads are handy for training or quick control, but should only be used if you understand how to use them safely.
Always check your gear regularly for wear and tear. Even the best dog collars and leads should be replaced if stitching begins to fray or hardware becomes loose.
Keep it structured: Start calmly. Don’t let your dog bolt out the door. Reward them for walking beside you, not pulling ahead.
Let them sniff: Dogs experience the world through their noses. Give them “sniff breaks” as rewards.
Stay present: Put your phone away. Notice your dog’s body language. Be part of the experience.
Switch it up: Explore new trails, parks, or routes to keep things interesting.
Use quality gear: It’s easier to enjoy the walk when your gear works with you, not against you.
Absolutely not. For active dogs, two walks a day can be ideal. Just balance the intensity, maybe a brisk morning walk and a slower evening stroll
No worries. Life happens. But try not to let it turn into a pattern. Even 15 minutes of engagement is better than none.
Sometimes! A short, strong lead is great for city walking or control. A longer lead or hands-free option can be great for bush walks or runs. Check out our range of dog walking leads designed for different adventures.
Explore premium Aussie-made dog gear.
If you’re after dog leads, dog collars, or durable dog toys, we’ve got gear that works as hard as your dog does.
All made here in Australia. All tested in real-world conditions. All made to last.
